Cytokines and Growth Factors

Cytokines are small soluble proteins or peptides synthesized and secreted by immune cells and various tissue cells, serving as key messengers for intercellular communication. By binding to receptors on the surface of target cells, they regulate immune responses, inflammation, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and participate in physiological processes such as anti-infection defense, antitumor immunity, and tissue repair. Common types include interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factors, colony-stimulating factors, and chemokines. Cytokines exhibit pleiotropic, redundant, synergistic, and antagonistic effects. Their abnormal expression can lead to inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, allergies, and other conditions, making them important targets for immunotherapy and vaccine development.